Taxi driver who rescued passenger from river wins hero award
A taxi driver who helped a young woman in distress has been declared a hero.
Mark Wray, from Hull, is Acorn’s Yorkshire and The Humber Taxi Hero after he rescued a woman from a river and helped reunite her with her family.
Competing against more than 1,700 nominees nationally, Mr Wray was recognised for his quick thinking and compassion after spotting a woman in the water.
Acorn Insurance, the UK’s largest taxi insurance specialist, launched the awards to celebrate the unsung heroes of Britain’s taxi industry.
He managed to reach the woman and bring her to safety, before helping her into his vehicle. He stayed with her, listening and offering reassurance as she explained that she had been experiencing serious personal difficulties.
He said: “I was just waiting to pick up a passenger when I noticed something in the river.
"When I looked towards the river, I realised the person in the water was actually the passenger I’d been waiting to pick up, and I knew I had to do something.
“At the time, my only concern was getting her somewhere safe and making sure she had the support she needed. Thankfully, I was able to get her home safely and reunite her with her family.
“It means a great deal to receive this recognition. I’m really proud to represent Hull and I’m looking forward to the national winner being announced.
"Whatever happens, it’s fantastic to see taxi drivers getting this kind of recognition.”